User reviews

An intimate look into a fascinating period of history. Not your average pre-holocaust story, but a rewarding exploration of a lesser-known case.

Some of the performances were rather wooden, and the direction felt a bit awkward and TV-ish at times, but the story was gripping. A much different role for Mr. Swayze, as well. I didn't expect him capable of such a sobering dramatic performance.

I hadn't heard of Halsman before, but am curious to learn more about him.

I will definitely watch this again, though I can't wait for it to hit the big screen.

I enjoyed it very much. The writing and bigotry against Jews, was on the wall,(literally in 1928) and Phillipe's father was a real pain in the neck. Paternalistic extremo. His arrogance and bullying factors caused his demise, but not by his son's hand. Although, one had to think why the hesitancy giving him heart pills and trying to stop him falling. But when the truth is revealed, one can understand, Phillip's father's obnoxious relationship with his family intimidated Phillipe and I suspect that barrier between son and father was noticed by others on the mountain and in the hotel. Ones who already had turned against Jews. However, how did they know they were Jews, from the blonde who had slept with the father the night before? And I queried why Phillipe took photos of his dead father, when the head wound was not there when he went for help. Was he in shock? He appeared to be, and also I feel felt a bit guilty about his father, given he had had an argument with him prior to this. This is understandable.

Some might again say "Not another film about wartime Jews" but the story has credibility. And it was just as well that Phillipe accepted the pardon and went to America. As others did of course, and who would wonder when the word got around, the Jews were targets now from the Nazi's. The scenery in Austria was wonderful, the acting was very good, and it was a satisfying film script.

The 119 minute version, which the director actually edited (despite the distribution of a 102" version) is a fascinating tale of the strife between a father and son which leads to death and deep regret. Patrick Swayze is fantastic in this movie. He shows a side of his acting which proves how diversified he can be and how talented. Martine McCutcheon and Anja Kruse are also fantastic, as is Ben Silverstone. This film should be watched in the original, English version (there is tendency in Europe to dub everything that moves -- including pictures). This film shows how Austria was also involved in the rise of National Socialism as an architect of the movement more than its victim.